Describe the world you come from; for example, your family, clubs, school, community, city, or town. How has that world shaped your dreams and aspirations? (200-250 words)

The stereotypical Asian parent pressures their children to become doctors or lawyers, forces them to play violin or piano once they can walk, and wears socks with sandals. The only part that my parent

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Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.

In seventh grade, one of my teachers gave everyone construction paper to make holiday cards for our parents. I wanted it to look nice, so I took out my scissors and glue. I cut out a mini red frame, r

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Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

I have always been a STEM person. I have been exposed to biology, chemistry, computer science, and math. But engineering, the elusive E in STEM, I had never been exposed to in school or elsewhere, unt

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Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.

I love the feeling of a light bulb turning on after hours spent on a math problem, clearly explaining a problem to a friend, and seeing all the distinct paths that lead to a single solution. I also lo

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What have you done to make your school or your community a better place?

My own interest in math began in middle school math competitions, especially Math Field Day, a competition with various math events within it. So, when I learned that the funds for the event were insu

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We know you lead a busy life, full of activities, many of which are required of you. Tell us about something you do simply for the pleasure of it. (100 words or fewer)

I bake pretzels, oreo cheesecakes, cinnamon rolls, etcetera -- all from the same basic ingredients -- because I love how individual ingredients taste bad, but together create delectable desserts. Each

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Although you may not yet know what you want to major in, which department or program at MIT appeals to you and why? (100 words or fewer)

The MISTI program appeals to me because it allows over 1200 students to study abroad annually, and I would love to be one (especially one attending the MIT-France Program, for its opportunities to exp

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At MIT, we bring people together to better the lives of others. MIT students work to improve their communities in different ways, from tackling the world’s biggest challenges to being a good friend. Describe one way in which you have contributed to your community, whether in your family, the classroom, your neighborhood, etc. (200-250 words)

Math is a language with universal notations and intricately layered concepts. Math is a powerful tool for innovation and communication. Math unifies the world. Through my fascination with this subject

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Tell us about the most significant challenge you’ve faced or something important that didn’t go according to plan. How did you manage the situation? (200-250 words)

“I’m an introvert, but I push myself to be extroverted.” Impossible. I was at camp when the friendliest, funniest counselor said that. I was the opposite: I avoided anyone short of an acquaintance. Ev

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Please tell us more about your cultural background and identity in the space below (100 word limit). If you need more than 100 words, please use the Optional section on Part 2

After eleven years of Chinese school and seventeen years with my parents, it’s an understatement to say that Chinese culture is a significant part of my identity. It ties me to all of my extended fami

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